Blind Man Paints the Most Beautiful Dog Portraits

John Bramblitt developed epilepsy at age 11, and by 30 he was blind because of it. But losing his sight gave him a tremendous vision; he took up painting, and makes the most amazing paintings – all by his sense of touch!

“When I lost my sight I began to learn how to use senses in new ways to accomplish tasks I was used to doing with my eyes,” he told the Daily Mail.

“I began painting because I wanted to reconnect with people; to let people know even though I have epilepsy, even though I am blind, I’m still me in here.

“The recognition my painting and workshops has brought has meant more connections with an incredible number of brilliant people from all over. It gives me a great optimism for the future.”

He uses a special kind of fabric paint that has raised edges, which allow him sketch an outline of his work. Then he touches the canvas and fills in the outline. Different colors have different textures.

He explains in detail to the Huffington Post how he is able to “see” the world around him and transfer it to the canvas.

Debbie Blank | The Herald-Tribune

Though he paints all sorts of things, his guide dog Echo serves as inspiration for a number of his paintings. Now he has tons of dog paintings!

Bramblitt has even inspired others to learn to paint using his techniques, and teaches classes.

About Melanie

studied English and has a bachelor's degree in psychology, with a focus on animal behavior, neuropsychology, and psychotherapy. She shares two pit bulls (adopted from the SPCA Serving Erie County) with her family, as well as three adopted cats with her husband, Fred. She takes pride in being a grammar enthusiast and advocating for animals, the environment, equal rights, and humanitarianism. She loves camping, cooking, taking photos, listening to psychedelic rock and indie music, and making all sorts of crafty things - from charm bracelets and paper rose bouquets to kitty condos and feral cat houses!

Melanie was sharing this profile with Fred, who is new to the Life With Dogs family, so many stories that were written by Fred from April 2014 - June 2014 will appear under Melanie's name.